Horrible gas

I had a colonoscopy approximately 2 months ago.  My doctor ordered the procedure to make sure there wasn't an underlying cause for an anal fissure.  Other than hemmoroids (hemorrhoids) and the fissure, my colon is clean.  However, since the procedure I have had horrible smelling gas along with a feeling of being bloated.  I understood that this would happen right after the procedure but am unsure why it has continued.  Is it possible that I got an infection during the colonoscopy?  Thanks for your help.  This is driving me crazy.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

2 months of gas following a colonoscopy is unlikely due to the procedure.  There are many reasons for increased gas, including irritable bowel syndrome, infections or malabsorption.  It is possible, but unlikely, that an infection from the colonoscopy is causing this.

You may want to inquire about further tests for malabsorption (i.e. fecal fat tests or tests for celiac disease) as well as dyspepsia (i.e. upper GI series or abdominal ultrasound).  You can also have the stool sent and cultured for infection.

If irritable bowel is determined to be the cause, antispasmodics may help.  There are also a variety of anti-gas medications that you can discuss with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.